Universal joint sealing tape for different profile dimensions and seal arrangement having such a joint sealing tape

ABSTRACT

A joint sealing tape is described, which can be universally used for different profile dimensions, for sealing building joints, particularly for sealing them with regard to noise and/or smoke and with regard to fire, if applicable. In particular, a joint sealing tape for sealing a joint between a first component and a second component is described, having an elongated connection element and at least two sealing elements, which are positioned on the connection element at a distance from and next to one another, running in the longitudinal direction of the connection element, and wherein the connection element has a perforation. 
     Furthermore, a sealing arrangement for sealing building joints, particularly for sealing them with regard to noise and/or smoke and with regard to fire, if applicable, having such a joint sealing tape is described.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a universal joint sealing tape fordifferent profile dimensions of a drywall framework, for sealing ofbuilding joints, particularly for sealing with regard to noise andsmoke, and, if applicable, with regard to fire. In particular, theinvention relates to acoustical, smoke-proof and/or fire-proof sealingof connection joints, particularly expansion joints, in the case of adrywall.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Connection joints generally occur when different components make contactwith one another. Connection joints are found in the connection regionwith the floor and with solid walls. In buildings, lowering or liftingof the ceiling can come about due to weight stress or thermalinfluences. In order to prevent damage to the drywall, in this case theupper connection joint is implemented as an expansion joint. Therefore,joints that interrupt components and prevent stress cracks are referredto as expansion joints. The ceiling profile is implemented in such amanner that relative movement between the ceiling profile and theperpendicular wall components is possible.

In general, a U profile, which is part of the framework, is attached tothe connecting components. Usual U profiles with which the work is doneare, in particular, U profiles having profile widths of 2½ inches (64mm), 3⅝ inches (92 mm), 4 inches (102 mm), 6 inches (152 mm), 8 inches(203 mm), and 10 inches (254 mm). The gypsum boards themselves areaffixed to the connecting component at a defined distance. Usually,sealing of the system takes place in the gap between the gypsum boardand the ceiling. For this purpose, either a suitable sealing compound isintroduced, or the gap is filled with mineral wool and provided with asealing layer on the surface. In both cases, the material situated inthe joint prevents movement relatively strongly, with the result that inorder to achieve sufficient movement absorption, the work has to be donewith relatively great joint widths.

In particular, sealing of the gap with sealing compound has somedisadvantages. It is particularly labor-intensive and the seal tends toform cracks over time, if it is subjected to excessive stress.Furthermore, sealing can only take place after installation of thegypsum boards, and requires access to the finished drywall on bothsides. In addition, this method of procedure is prone to errors, sincethe user himself/herself must meter in the correct amount of material inorder to seal the gap sufficiently. Also, the drywall builder mustdimension the width of the joint in accordance with the materialproperties and expansion properties of the sealing compound. Duringinstallation of the sealing compound, only the joint can be filled atthat point. If the gap expands, it must be guaranteed that the sealingcompound adheres strongly enough to the substrate and is able to absorbthe tensile forces that occur. Frequently, this is not the case, and therisk exists that the sealing compound comes loose from the substrate orthat the sealing compound itself is subjected to excessive stress andtherefore tears. In the case of a reduction in the gap, the sealingcompound can be compressed only to a limited extent, because of itsmaterial properties, and the risk exists that it will be pressed out ofthe gap if the joint is dimensioned incorrectly. Because of the limitedexpansion and compression capacity of the sealing compound (max.+/−25%), dimensioning the distance between the gypsum board and theceiling to be sufficiently large has great importance. This isfrequently underestimated, and therefore a sufficient seal often cannotbe guaranteed when using usual sealing compounds.

Some other solutions exist for sealing joints, particularly joint cordsor joint sprays, some of which have the same disadvantages as describedfor sealing compounds.

Furthermore, a specially dimensioned sealing tape has to be produced forevery profile width of the U profile of a drywall framework, because ona construction site, work is performed with different profile widths ofthe U profiles, particularly for the 2½ inch (64 mm), 3⅝ inch (92 mm), 4inch (102 mm), 6 inch (102 mm), 8 inch (203 mm), and 10 inch (254 mm)rail. Therefore, sealing tapes of different widths have to be availableto a drywall builder or user, or he/she must cut them to size from ausual sealing tape, something that is very labor-intensive anduneconomical.

It is therefore the object of the invention to provide a joint sealingtape that avoids the disadvantages of the known materials, and, inparticular, can be used more simply and more reliably, simplifiesinstallation of further components, already guarantees a good sealduring its use, guarantees excellent tightness with maximal expansionabsorption, and, at the same time, can be universally used for differentprofile widths of the U profile of a drywall framework, particularly forthe usual profile widths of 2½ inches (64 mm), 3⅝ inches (92 mm), 4inches (102 mm), 6 inches (152 mm), 8 inches (203 mm), and 10 inches(254 mm).

A further object of the present invention is to provide an arrangementthat allows better sealing of the joint between two components in theevent of a fire, particularly between a drywall and a connectingcomponent, such as a wall, a ceiling or a floor, and thereby makesavailable a better and permanent seal with regard to noise and/or smoke,and, if applicable, better and permanent fire protection, and can beinstalled with less work effort, in reliable and error-free manner, evenfor different profile dimensions of a drywall framework.

These and other objects that are evident from the following descriptionof the invention are solved by the present invention as it is describedin the independent claims. The dependent claims relate to preferredembodiments.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a joint sealing tape for sealing ajoint between a first component and a second component, having anelongated connection element and at least two sealing elements, whichare positioned on the connection element at a distance from and next toone another, running in the longitudinal direction of the connectionelement, which tape is characterized in that the connection element hasa perforation. Preferably, the sealing elements are positioned at theouter edge of the connection element.

The present invention furthermore relates to a sealing arrangement forsealing a joint between two components adjacent to one another, havingat least a first component, a second component, and the joint sealingtape according to the invention.

Other objects and characteristics of this invention are obvious, inpart, and are explained hereinafter, in part. In particular, the objectof the present invention is described in detail, making reference to thefollowing figures:

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

FIG. 1a shows a schematic front view of a joint sealing tape accordingto an embodiment of the present invention, wherein the sealing elementshave a solid profile and a rectangular profile having rounded corners,and the connection element has a perforation.

FIG. 1b shows a schematic front view of a separated joint sealing tape(two joint sealing tape halves) according to an embodiment of thepresent invention, wherein the sealing element has a solid profile and arectangular profile having rounded corners, in each instance.

FIG. 1c shows a schematic bottom view of a joint sealing tape accordingto an embodiment of the present invention, wherein the connectionelement has a perforation.

FIG. 2a shows a schematic front view of a joint sealing tape accordingto an embodiment of the present invention, wherein the sealing elementshave a solid profile and a rectangular profile having rounded corners,and the connection element has a perforation and two self-adhesivefixtures.

FIG. 2b shows a schematic front view of a separated joint sealing tape(two joint sealing tape halves) according to an embodiment of thepresent invention, wherein the sealing element has a solid profile and arectangular profile having rounded corners, and the connection elementhas a self-adhesive fixture, in each instance.

FIG. 2c shows a schematic bottom view of a joint sealing tape accordingto an embodiment of the present invention, wherein the connectionelement has a perforation and two self-adhesive fixtures.

FIG. 3a shows a schematic front view of a joint sealing tape accordingto an embodiment of the present invention, wherein the sealing elementshave a solid profile and a rectangular profile having rounded corners,the connection element has a perforation and a widening element.

FIG. 3b shows a schematic front view of a pulled-apart joint sealingtape according to an embodiment of the present invention, wherein thesealing elements have a solid profile and a rectangular profile havingrounded corners, and wherein the widening element connects the twoseparated joint sealing tape halves.

FIG. 4a shows a schematic front view of a joint sealing tape accordingto an embodiment of the present invention, wherein the sealing elementshave a solid profile and a rectangular profile having rounded corners,the connection element has a perforation and a widening element, andwherein the widening element has a further widening loop.

FIG. 4b shows a schematic front view of a pulled-apart joint sealingtape according to an embodiment of the present invention, wherein thesealing elements have a solid profile and a rectangular profile havingrounded corners, and wherein the widening element connects the twoseparated joint sealing tape halves and has a further widening loop.

FIG. 4c shows a schematic front view of a joint sealing tape accordingto an embodiment of the present invention, pulled apart twice, whereinthe sealing elements have a solid profile and a rectangular profilehaving rounded corners, and wherein the widening element connects thetwo separated joint sealing tape halves.

FIG. 5a shows a schematic front view of a joint sealing tape accordingto an embodiment of the present invention, wherein the sealing elementshave a solid profile and a round profile, and the connection element hasa perforation and a widening element.

FIG. 5b shows a schematic front view of a pulled-apart joint sealingtape according to an embodiment of the present invention, wherein thesealing elements have a solid profile and a round profile, and whereinthe widening element connects the two separated joint sealing tapehalves.

FIG. 6 shows a sectional view through a finished component with theembodiment of a joint sealing tape according to the invention shown inFIG. 5a or 5 b.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The following terms are used within the scope of the present invention:

The term “geometries” within the scope of the present inventioncomprises different cross-section types and cross-section forms. Thismeans that the sealing elements, in particular, can have differentcross-section types and cross-section forms. Cross-section types areunderstood to be, among other things a round profile (roundcross-section), oval profile (oval cross-section), polygonal profile(polygonal cross-section), particularly square profile (squarecross-section), rectangular profile (rectangular cross-section),parallelogram profile (cross-section in the form of a parallelogram),triangular profile (triangular cross-section), etc. However, other ormixed cross-section forms are conceivable and possible, such as, forexample, a rectangular profile having rounded corners. Cross-sectionforms are understood to be, among other things, a solid profile and ahollow profile, wherein in the case of the solid profile, the sealingelements consist entirely of sealing material, whereas in the case ofthe hollow profile, the sealing elements consist only partially ofsealing material.

The term “deformable” within the scope of the present invention meansthat uneven areas in the component can be balanced out, against whichareas the sealing elements are pressed. “Plastically deformable” means,in this regard, that the sealing elements are deformable and do notreturn to their original shape after the deformation. “Elasticallydeformable” means, in this regard, that the sealing elements aredeformable and return to their original shape after the deformation,i.e. that the material can be reversibly deformed to a certain degree.

The terms “has/have,” “having,” and “has/have” are supposed to beinclusive and mean that other elements aside from those mentioned canalso be intended.

The term “intumescence” within the scope of the present invention means,in this regard, that the material expands under the effect of heat, forexample in the event of a fire, and forms an insulating layer composedof flame-retardant material, in other words it intumesces.

Within the scope of the present invention, “foam material that burns offslowly” is understood to be a foam material that offers no possibilityof spreading the fire through the foam material, is not inherentlyflammable, and also does not drip as it burns.

“Positioned in the upper region of the joint” means that the sealingelements are particularly disposed laterally on the first component, inthis regard.

Used within the scope of the present invention, the singular forms “a”and “an” also include the corresponding plural forms, unless the contextclearly permits a different conclusion. Therefore, the term “a,” forexample, is supposed to mean “one or more” or “at least one,” unlessindicated otherwise.

In one aspect, the present invention relates to a joint sealing tape forsealing a joint between a first component and a second component, havingan elongated connection element and at least two sealing elements, whichare positioned on the connection element at a distance from and next toone another, running in the longitudinal direction of the connectionelement, which tape is characterized in that the connection element hasa perforation.

In a further aspect, the present invention relates to a sealingarrangement for sealing a joint between two components adjacent to oneanother, having at least a first component, a second component, and thejoint sealing tape described above, wherein the joint sealing tape ispositioned in the upper region of the joint and configured for sealingthe joint from the outside.

It has been found that the joint sealing tape according to the inventionis particularly suitable for reliably sealing a building joint betweentwo adjacent components, particularly with regard to noise and/or smokeand, if applicable, also with regard to fire, and that the joint sealingtape can be universally used, at the same time, for different profilewidths, particularly a U profile of a drywall framework. In order forthe joint sealing tape to be able to fulfill its function, theconnection element of the joint sealing tape must have a perforation.Furthermore, it is advantageous that the sealing elements of the jointsealing tape have a predetermined geometry.

Therefore, it is the objective of the present invention to describe thejoint sealing tape. In particular, it is the objective of the presentinvention to describe the geometry of the sealing elements and theconnection element of the joint sealing tape, which has a perforation,in detail. Furthermore, it is the objective of the present invention todescribe the positioning of the joint sealing tape, particularly asealing arrangement.

The joint sealing tape according to the invention, for sealing a jointbetween a first component and a second component, having an elongatedconnection element and at least two sealing elements that are positionedon the connection element at a distance from and next to one another,running in the longitudinal direction of the connection element, ischaracterized in that the connection element has a perforation.

The perforation of the connection element preferably runs in the centerof the connection element, i.e. in the longitudinal direction of thejoint sealing tape. This perforation allows easy separation (tearingapart) or alternatively pulling apart of the two joint sealing tapehalves. By means of tearing them apart, without the use of a tool, twoseparate joint sealing tape halves can easily be produced, which bothpossess a sealing element, and which can be used, with the aid of anadhesion fixture, such as, for example, a separate adhesive tape oradhesive spray, and either for a one-sided seal or for wider U profiles,particularly U profiles having profile widths of more than 10 inches(254 mm). It is also possible that the joint sealing tape is providedwith self-adhesive fixtures before separation, so that after it is tomapart, two half tapes are formed, which can immediately be installedwithout further aids. The joint sealing tape halves are thereforeuniversally usable for different profile dimensions.

The sealing elements of the joint sealing tape according to theinvention for sealing a joint between a first component and a secondcomponent have a predetermined geometry. Geometries within the scope ofthe present invention comprise, as already mentioned above, differentcross-section types and cross-section forms.

Preferred cross-section types of the sealing elements according to thepresent invention are solid profile and hollow profile, wherein thehollow profile can be a closed or an open hollow profile. Solid profilesand hollow profiles having a great profile wall thickness have theadvantage that automatically, no gap occurs at the join of two sealingelements that touch one another. Hollow profiles can be compressed to agreater extent, and thereby can absorb more expansion. It isparticularly preferred that the sealing elements have a solid profile.

Preferred cross-section forms of the sealing elements according to thepresent invention are round profile and polygonal profile, particularlyrectangular profile, square profile, oval profile, parallelogramprofile, and triangular profile. Round profile and rectangular profileare particularly preferred, with rectangular profile being mostpreferred. However, other or mixed cross-section forms are alsoconceivable and possible, such as, for example, a rectangular profilehaving rounded corners, as long as the sealing elements border on thetwo components after installation of the joint sealing tape and canclose off the joint that exists between the two components. Preferably,the sealing elements are positioned on the outer edge of the connectionelement.

In a preferred embodiment of the joint sealing tape according to theinvention, the sealing elements have a round profile.

In a further preferred embodiment of the joint sealing tape according tothe invention, the sealing elements have an oval profile.

In yet another preferred embodiment of the joint sealing tape accordingto the invention, the sealing elements have a rectangular profile havingrounded corners.

In a particularly preferred embodiment of the joint sealing tapeaccording to the invention, the sealing elements have a solid profileand a round profile.

In yet another particularly preferred embodiment of the joint sealingtape according to the invention, the sealing elements have a solidprofile and an oval profile.

In yet another particularly preferred embodiment of the joint sealingtape according to the invention, the sealing elements have a solidprofile and a rectangular profile having rounded corners.

The geometry of the sealing elements can be prefabricated, for exampleproduced by means of defined cutting to shape, extrusion or pressing ofsuitable sealing material, or directly from flat material, for exampleby means of folding or rolling from a flat starting material, such as,for example, woven fabric, particularly composed of a non-flammablematerial, such as inorganic fibers, for example glass fibers, a nonwovenfabric or the like. The production of such cross-section types andcross-section forms is known to a person skilled in the art. It ispreferred that the geometry of the sealing elements is prefabricated bymeans of defined cutting to shape or extrusion. It is particularlypreferred that the geometry of the sealing elements is prefabricated bymeans of extrusion.

The sealing elements according to the invention can be produced from orconsist of a material in one piece, or can be produced from or consistof multiple materials in multiple parts, and be present as a layeredbody, for example. In alternative embodiments, the outer region and theinner region of a sealing element can define separate regions of thesealing element, which have different cross-section forms and/orcross-section types and/or can consist of different materials.

According to the invention, the sealing elements consist of a deformablematerial. The material can be either plastically or elasticallydeformable, in this regard. In particular, the sealing elements consist,at least in part but preferably entirely of a material that resumes itsshape after compression, such as, for example, foam material, foamrubber, cellular rubber or the like. The sealing elements according tothe invention preferably consist of a soft foam material that resumesits shape after compression. Possible foam materials that can bementioned are usual foam materials such as polyethylene foam materialand polyurethane foam material or cellular rubber. In this regard, thefoam material can be an open-cell foam material with very low airpassage resistance, also an almost closed-cell foam material withextremely low air passage values. Foam materials having air passagevalues that lie between the two extreme cases mentioned above can alsobe used within the scope of the present invention. The foam material canbe saturated with an impregnate that increases the sealing properties ofthe foam material. In order to achieve a seal with regard to smoke, atleast the outer surface of the sealing element should be configured withclosed pores. Alternatively, an open-cell sealing element can beprovided with cover layer or mantling, for example composed of a film,particularly a plastic film. The cover layer or the mantling can beformed by the connection element or by a separate material. It ispreferred that the sealing elements consist of an open-cell polyurethanefoam material or of a cellular rubber.

It has proven to be advantageous if the sealing elements consist of aslow-burning foam material, such as, for example, cellular rubber orpolyurethane foam. In the case of a slow-burning foam material, there isno possibility of fire spreading through the foam material. Independentignition is excluded in the case of the aforementioned foam materials asstarting materials. It is advantageous that in the event of a fire,dripping also does not take place. In a temperature range between 500°C. to 800° C., a slow-burning foam material should still possess atleast 20%, at least 25%, preferably still at least 30%, between 20% to60%, between 20% to 40%, preferably between 25% to 30% of its initialvolume. Furthermore, in a temperature range between 500° C. to 800° C.,a slow-burning foam material should still possess at least 10%, at least20%, preferably still at least 30%, between 10% to 40%, between 10% to30%, preferably between 15% to 20% of its initial mass.

Furthermore, if fire protection properties, such as intumescence, forexample, are desired, the material can contain corresponding additives.Under the effect of heat, as in the event of a fire, the materialinflates and forms an insulating layer composed of material having lowflammability. The formation of a voluminous insulating layer, namely anash layer, can occur as the result of the chemical reaction of a mixturecomposed of corresponding compounds coordinated with one another, whichreact with one another under the effect of heat. Such systems are knownto a person skilled in the art under the term chemical intumescence, andcan be used according to the invention. Alternatively, the voluminousinsulating layer can be formed by means of inflation of a singlecompound, which releases gases without a chemical reaction between twocompounds having taken place, under the effect of heat. Such systems areknown to a person skilled in the art under the term physicalintumescence and can also be used according to the invention. The twosystems can be used alone or together, in each instance, as acombination, according to the invention.

In some embodiments, it is also sufficient if solely the connectionelement is tight with regard to smoke and/or gases.

In a preferred embodiment of the joint sealing tape according to theinvention, the sealing elements consist of an open-cell foam.

In a further preferred embodiment of the joint sealing tape according tothe invention, the sealing elements consist of a closed-cell foam.

In a particularly preferred embodiment of the joint sealing tapeaccording to the invention, the sealing elements consist of an open-cellpolyurethane foam.

In a further particularly preferred embodiment of the joint sealing tapeaccording to the invention, the sealing elements consist of a cellularrubber.

The connection element can consist of a deformable material, which isthe same as that of the sealing elements, of a film, for example aplastic film, of a woven fabric, particularly composed of anon-flammable material, such as inorganic fibers, for example glassfibers, a nonwoven fabric or the like. It is preferred that theconnection element consists of a deformable material that is the same asthat of the sealing elements or of a film.

The connection element can be produced in one piece from one material orin multiple pieces, also from different materials. It is preferred thatthe connection element is composed of a deformable material and issheathed by a film, at least in part. The connection element can havedifferent thicknesses, as the result of production conditions.

The joint sealing tape according to the invention can be produced in onepiece from one material or in multiple pieces, also from differentmaterials. It is preferred that the joint sealing tape consists ofmultiple units/materials. It is particularly preferred that the sealingelements consist of deformable material and that the connection elementconsists, at least in part, of deformable material. It is most preferredthat the sealing elements consist of deformable material and theconnection element consists at least in part of deformable material, andthat the joint sealing tape is sheathed by a film, preferably a plasticfilm.

In an embodiment of the joint sealing tape according to the invention,the sealing elements are firmly connected with the connection element atleast over part their circumference. In this way, a firm connection iscreated between the connection element and the sealing elements, so thateven in the case of severe stress on the attachment region and partialloosening of the sealing element from the connection element, thesealing elements are prevented from coming completely loose from theconnection element.

In a further embodiment of the joint sealing tape according to theinvention, the sealing elements are firmly connected with the connectionelement over their entire circumference. In this way, for one thing anoptimal and permanent attachment of the sealing element to theconnection element is achieved, which makes loosening of the sealingelement from the connection element almost impossible. For anotherthing, if the connection material is smoke-gas-tight, an open-cell foammaterial can be used for the sealing elements.

In a preferred embodiment of the joint sealing tape according to theinvention, the sealing elements and the connection element can beproduced from one material and accordingly can be firmly connected withone another and sheathed by a film, preferably a plastic film.

The region of the connection element, that lies between the two sealingelements, more precisely between the two points of attack of theconnection element on the sealing element, defines a contact region thatconsists only of the connection element. In this regard, the contactregion is dimensioned in such a manner that it approximately correspondsto the width of the crosspiece of the U profile. In this way,installation and, in particular, positioning of the joint sealing tapeon the crosspiece of the U profile are facilitated. It is preferred thatthe contact region of the joint sealing tape according to the inventionhas a width in the range of about 30 mm to about 300 mm, preferably inthe range of about 50 to 250 mm, and more preferably in the range ofabout 90 to 155 mm. It is particularly preferred that the contact regionof the joint sealing tape according to the invention has a width of 67mm for a 2½ inch (64 mm) rail, of 95 mm for a 3⅝ inch (92 mm) rail, of105 mm for a 4 inch (102 mm) rail, of 155 mm for a 6 inch (152 mm) rail,of 206 mm for an 8 inch (203 mm) rail or of 257 mm for a 10 inch (254mm) rail. It is most preferred that the contact region of the jointsealing tape according to the invention has a width of 95 mm for a 3⅝inch (92 mm) rail or of 155 mm for a 6 inch (152 mm) rail.

In order to obtain different profile dimensions, particularly differentwidths of the contact region, the connection element of the jointsealing tape according to the invention can furthermore have at leastone widening element. It is preferred that the widening element ispresent in the form of a loop. The widening element consists of adeformable material, a plastic film, a woven fabric, a nonwoven fabricor the like, preferably of a plastic film.

This widening element is attached to the top or underside of theconnection element, in such a manner that a loop is formed. Attachmenttakes place by means of sewing it on, gluing it on or welding it on,preferably by means of welding it on. The dimension of the loop is sizedin such a manner that after the two joint sealing tape halves are pulledapart, the desired width for an alternative profile is formed by meansof separation of the perforation of the connection element. Thus, asecond profile dimension can be obtained by means of a separation step,i.e. the joint sealing tape can simultaneously be used for a 3⅝ inch (92mm) or a 6 inch (152 mm) rail, for example.

Furthermore, the joint sealing tape according to the invention can haveone or more additional widening elements in the form of loops. Theseadditional widening elements can be obtained in that the loop of the atleast one widening element is still divided one or more times with awelding seam, so that several profile widths can be covered with oneproduct, by means of corresponding separation of the seam or seams. Inparticular, the common U profiles having profile widths of 2½ inches (64mm), 3⅝ inches (92 mm), 4 inches (102 mm), 6 inches (152 mm), 8 inches(203 mm), and 10 inches (254 mm) can be covered by means of the one orby means of the multiple widening elements. In this way, installationand, in particular, positioning of the joint sealing tape on thecrosspiece of the U profile are facilitated. For facilitation of theselection of the desired width of the joint sealing tape for a specificprofile, the widening elements can be provided with markings for thespecific profile sizes. Because of the flexibility of the wideningelement, however, it is possible to also cover different profile widthsof U profiles of a drywall framework with the joint sealing tapeaccording to the invention and to seal the joint.

By means of the joint sealing tape according to the invention, auniversal product for different profile sizes and applications is madeavailable, which can furthermore be produced on a production line, incost-advantageous manner.

If the joint sealing tape is produced in multiple parts, positioning ofthe sealing elements on the connection element takes place by means forattachment, for example in the form of an adhesive layer, particularly aself-adhesive layer, in the form of means that have a shape-fit offorce-fit connection effect, such as suitable profilings, or by means ofwelding, for example thermal welding or ultrasound welding or the like.Positioning of the sealing elements on the connection element by meansof an adhesive layer or welding is preferred. In the case of one-piecejoint sealing tapes, positioning is predetermined by the productionconditions.

The dimension and the material of the joint sealing tape, particularlynot only of the sealing element but also of the connection element, areselected in accordance with the planned use of the joint sealing tape.

In general, the dimension of the sealing elements is selected as afunction of the profile types used and of the material used. Thedimension must be selected in such a manner that the sealing elementfills the gap between the gypsum board and the ceiling and lies againstboth the ceiling and the gypsum board. If vertical movement of thegypsum boards is to be permitted, the sealing element must follow themovement of the gypsum board, so that the contact with the gypsum boardis not interrupted and no gap can occur between sealing element andgypsum board. For this purpose, the sealing element preferably consistsof a material that can recover its shape and is compressible, and duringinstallation, the gypsum boards are pre-compressed accordingly, so thata downward movement of the gypsum board, increasing the gap between itand the ceiling, can be followed. The pre-set freedom of movement of thegypsum board therefore determines the dimension of the sealing elements.

As an example, it should be mentioned that the height of the narrow sideof rectangular sealing elements, for example, is selected as a functionof the desired use of the sealing elements, wherein in the case ofsingle planking, the height is selected to be approximately thethickness of a gypsum board, and in the case of double planking, theheight is selected to be about twice the thickness of a gypsum board.However, it is also possible to use the joint sealing tape designed fordouble planking in the case of single planking.

As an example, it should also be mentioned that material and geometry ofthe sealing element can be selected in such a manner that its hardnessor compressibility is set so that solely due to the inherent weight ofthe gypsum board in the floor region of the sealing elements,compression takes place to a defined height, for example by means of atwo-layer structure of the sealing elements composed of foam materialhaving different compression density. In this way, a correct distancebetween floor and sheetrock can be set without further measuring. Thisis particularly necessary if damage to the gypsum board caused by risingwetness is to be prevented.

Positioning of the sealing elements on a component can take place bymeans of a connection element, in one step. It is also possible that theconnection element and/or the sealing elements in turn have means forattachment on a component, such as a drywall profile, for example in theform of a self-adhesive layer, in the form of means that have ashape-fit or force-fit connection effect, such as suitable profilings orthe like; optionally, individual positioning of the sealing elements ispossible, for example if the joint sealing tape is separated at theperforation and two joint sealing tape halves are obtained. However, thejoint sealing tape according to the invention is preferably positionedon a component in one step.

To create a sealing arrangement according to the invention, the jointsealing tape according to the invention is positioned on a firstcomponent before the first component is affixed, and then attachedtogether with it on a second component, in usual manner, for example byscrewing it on or nailing it on. Preferably, the first component is aframe profile of a drywall framework, for example a U profile, and thesecond component is a wall, a ceiling or a floor of a building.Particularly preferably, the first component is a U profile, and thesecond component is a ceiling. With this arrangement, the joint sealingtape is positioned in the upper region of the joint and configured forsealing the joint from the outside.

In one possibility for sealing a connection joint in drywallconstruction, the joint sealing tape is positioned on a U profile beforethe profile is affixed to the connecting components, such as a ceiling,for example, and then attached to the ceiling together with the profile.In a further work step, the gypsum boards, in one or two layers, arepressed against the sealing element on the edge side, so that in thecase of double planking, the two gypsum boards come into contact withthe sealing element with their top edge, in each instance, and therebysealing of the joint is achieved. In order to permit movement of thegypsum board(s), without a gap between the sealing element and thegypsum board or the gypsum boards occurring at the maximal movement, thesealing element must be compressed during installation of the gypsumboard(s).

In this regard, the material and the thickness of the sealing element isselected, in each instance, so that the sealing element does not hindermovement of the gypsum board(s) and, in the case of a maximal jointwidth, the top edge of the gypsum board(s) continues to touch thesealing element, in order to ensure sufficient sealing with regard togas. The width of the sealing element is preferably selected so that itapproximately corresponds to twice the width of a gypsum board. It hasbeen shown that sufficient sealing can be achieved even of the width ofthe sealing elements corresponds to the width of only one gypsum board.

When placing the joint sealing tape on the U profile and abutted to theceiling, uneven areas in both components can be balanced out, and simplepositioning without adhesion is possible. Furthermore, the jointdistance can be controlled by means of the subsequent positioning of thegypsum board and by the selection of the sealing materials and/orgeometry configuration of the joint sealing tape.

Alternatively, when using only one gypsum board, this can be installednot abutting the sealing element from below, but rather so that thegypsum board partially overlaps with the sealing element. As a result,the gypsum board partially projects beyond the sealing element, and theoverlapping part of the sealing element is pressed between the U profileand the gypsum board. It has been shown that in this way, too,sufficient sealing, particularly with regard to gases, can be achieved.To improve the seal and/or the sliding properties, the sealing tap canbe laminated on one side with a layer composed of a material thatneither hinders the movement of the gypsum board nor is destroyed by thelatter, such as a plastic film. The position marking for the gypsumboard can be easily applied to a film, for example.

In this method of installation, great absorption of expansion incomparison with the joint width is possible. Furthermore, this method ofinstallation is easier to use than the single or double plankingmentioned above, because the gypsum board can simply be installed on thesealing element without any distance measurement. When using apositioning marking, the gypsum board can be installed without adistance measurement. Furthermore, when using this installation method,one is not restricted to using easily compressible materials for thesealing elements and therefore has relatively great freedom in theselection of the material.

In a further particularly preferred alternative, sealing of the jointcan be achieved if, in the case of double planking, the two gypsumboards installed with horizontal offset, in such a manner that the outerone of the two gypsum boards (also referred to as the outer, secondgypsum board) is installed higher (i.e. closer to the ceiling) than theinner gypsum board (also referred to as the inner, first gypsum board).In this embodiment, the thickness of the sealing element is selected inaccordance with the thickness of a gypsum board. The first, inner gypsumboard is installed in such a manner that its upper edge touches the facesurfaces of the sealing element, wherein no or little pre-compression ofthe sealing element is required. The second, outer gypsum board isaffixed with horizontal offset, i.e. it is installed higher than thefirst, inner gypsum board, so that it partially covers the sealingelement. In this regard, the sealing element and the gypsum board shouldbe adjacent to one another to form a seal, in order to seal the gapbetween the outer, second gypsum board and the sealing element,particularly with regard to gases. In this way, sealing takes placebetween the sealing element and the second component, for example aceiling, a wall or a floor, as well as between sealing element and theouter, second gypsum board.

An empty gap remains between the second component, for example aceiling, a wall or a floor, and the outer, second gypsum board. This gapis completely available to absorb movement in the case of a verticalmovement of the second component or the gypsum boards.

Depending on how far the outer, second gypsum board covers the sealingelement (size of the offset), movement in the other direction can alsobe absorbed. It is important that in this case, coverage between thesecond gypsum board and the joint sealing tape remains guaranteed.Preferably, therefore, the dimension of the sealing element is selectedso that its thickness is slightly greater than the thickness of a gypsumboard, and its height comprises slightly more than the maximallypermissible movement of the components (maximal joint width).

Because the thickness of the sealing element is greater than thethickness of the gypsum board, the gypsum board is pressed against thesealing element during its installation and compressed slightly, therebyreliably sealing the gap between sealing element and gypsum board,particularly with regard to gases.

For easier setting of the correct joint dimension in the case of theouter, second gypsum board, markings can be applied laterally on thejoint sealing tape; these are called positioning markings. To improvethe seal and/or the sliding properties, the sealing tape can belaminated on one side with a layer composed of a material that neitherhinders the movement of the gypsum board nor is destroyed by the latter,such as a plastic film. The positioning marking for the outer, secondgypsum board can easily be applied to a film for example.

In this method of installation, maximal absorption of expansion, incomparison with the joint width, is possible. Furthermore, this methodof installation is very easy to use, for one thing because the firstgypsum board can easily be installed to have contact with the sealingelement, without any distance measurement. For another thing,particularly when using a positioning marking, the second gypsum boardcan also be installed without a distance measurement. Furthermore, thismethod of installation results in the greatest possible freedom in theselection of the material for the sealing elements, because these areonly compressed slightly and therefore only low demands are made withregard to compressibility of the sealing element.

According to the invention, the joint sealing tape can be used on alltypes of connection joints in which one component meets anothercomponent. Accordingly, the joint sealing tape can be used on allprofiles, also closed profiles or wooden beams, which must be sealedrelative to a connection surface.

A particularly preferred use of the joint sealing tape therefore relatesto sealing the profiles in drywall construction, wherein the firstcomponent is a ceiling profile, floor profile or wall profile or a metalor wood framework of a drywall element, and the second component is afloor, a ceiling or a wall of a component, for example a masonryconstruction or concrete component. The profile can be any one of theprofiles for drywall construction that are usually used, independent ofwhether it has a slit or non-slit crosspiece or a slit or non-slitflange. The further components are gypsum boards that lie tightlyagainst the profiles and are attached to the framework. In order topermit vertical movement of the gypsum boards, for example in the eventof an earthquake, the gypsum boards are installed at a distance from awall, a floor or a ceiling, with vertical mobility. In this way, a gapoccurs (also called a joint herein) between the gypsum board and thewall, the floor or the ceiling. This joint is filled by the sealingelement of the joint sealing tape, so that the sealing element seals thejoint with regard to noise and/or smoke, and, depending on the materialof the joint sealing tape, if applicable also with regard to fire.

Without restricting the scope of protection of the invention, theinvention will be described in greater detail using special embodimentsof the joint sealing tape. In these embodiments, the joint sealing tapeis used on the connection joints of drywall walls. It is clear to aperson skilled in the art that the sealing tape can also be used forother types of building joints.

In FIGS. 1a to 1c , a preferred embodiment of a joint sealing tape 1according to the invention is shown. The joint sealing tape 1 in FIG. 1ahas two sealing elements 3 a and 3 b, which are positioned on the outeredges of the connection element 2. The sealing elements 3 a and 3 b havea rectangular profile having rounded corners and a solid profile,wherein the connection element 2 is positioned laterally on the sealingelements 3 a and 3 b. Furthermore, the sealing elements 3 a and 3 b andconnection element 2 are produced in one piece and consist of acompressible foam material, which contains fire protection additives, ifapplicable. The joint sealing tape 1 is completely sheathed by a plasticfilm 4 and has a perforation (P) in the longitudinal direction of thejoint sealing tape 1. FIG. 1b shows the joint sealing tape 1 from FIG.1a separated at the perforation (two joint sealing tape halves), whereinthe two joint sealing tape halves both a sealing element 3 a, 3 b, apart 2 a, 2 b of the connection element 2, and are partially sheathedwith plastic film 4 a, 4 b, in each instance. FIG. 1c shows a schematicbottom view of the joint sealing tape 1 according to the embodiment ofFIG. 1 a.

In FIGS. 2a to 2c , a preferred embodiment of a joint sealing tape 1according to the invention is shown. The joint sealing tape 1 in FIG. 2ahas two sealing elements 3 a and 3 b, which are positioned on the outeredges of the connection element 2. The sealing elements 3 a and 3 b havea rectangular profile having rounded corners and a solid profile,wherein the connection element 2 is positioned laterally on the sealingelements 3 a and 3 b. Furthermore, the sealing elements 3 a and 3 b andconnection element 2 are produced in one piece and consist of acompressible foam material, which contains fire protection additives, ifapplicable. The joint sealing tape 1 is completely sheathed by a plasticfilm 4 and has a perforation (P) in the longitudinal direction of thejoint sealing tape 1. The connection element 2 has self-adhesivefixtures in the form of adhesive strips 5 a, 5 b. FIG. 2b shows thejoint sealing tape 1 from FIG. 2a separated at the perforation (twojoint sealing tape halves), wherein the two joint sealing tape halvesboth have a sealing element 3 a, 3 b, both have a part 2 a, 2 b of theconnection element 2, and are partially sheathed with plastic film 4 a,4 b, in each instance, and both have a self-adhesive fixture 5 a, 5 b.FIG. 2c shows a schematic bottom view of the joint sealing tape 1according to the embodiment of FIG. 2 a.

In FIGS. 3a and 3b , a preferred embodiment of a joint sealing tape 1according to the invention is shown. FIG. 3a shows a schematic frontview of a joint sealing tape 1, wherein the sealing elements 3 a and 3 bare positioned on the outer edges of the connection element 2. Thesealing elements 3 a and 3 b have a rectangular profile having roundedcorners and a solid profile, wherein the connection element 2 ispositioned laterally on the sealing elements 3 a and 3 b. Furthermore,the sealing elements 3 a and 3 b and connection element 2 are producedin one piece and consist of a compressible foam material, which containsfire protection additives, if applicable. The joint sealing tape 1 iscompletely sheathed by a plastic film 4 and has a perforation (P) in thelongitudinal direction of the joint sealing tape 1 and a wideningelement 6 composed of a plastic film, which is attached on the top ofthe connection element 2. FIG. 3b shows the joint sealing tape 1 fromFIG. 3a , separated at the perforation, wherein the two joint sealingtape halves both have a sealing element 3 a, 3 b, both have a part 2 a,2 b of the connection element 2, and are partially sheathed with plasticfilm 4 a, 4 b, in each instance, and wherein the widening element 6connects the two separated joint sealing tape halves.

In FIGS. 4a to 4c , a preferred embodiment of a joint sealing tape 1according to the invention is shown. FIG. 4a shows a schematic frontview of a joint sealing tape 1, wherein the sealing elements 3 a and 3b, which are positioned on the outer edges of the connection element 2.The sealing elements 3 a and 3 b have a rectangular profile havingrounded corners and a solid profile, wherein the connection element 2 ispositioned laterally on the sealing elements 3 a and 3 b. Furthermore,the sealing elements 3 a and 3 b and connection element 2 are producedin one piece and consist of a compressible foam material that containsfire protection additives, if applicable. The joint sealing tape 1 iscompletely sheathed by a plastic film 4 and has a perforation (P) in thelongitudinal direction of the joint sealing tape 1 and a wideningelement 6 composed of a plastic film, which is attached to the top ofthe connection element 2. Furthermore, the joint sealing tape 1 has afurther widening element 6 a in the form of a loop, which consists ofplastic film. FIG. 4b shows the joint sealing tape 1 from FIG. 4aseparated at the perforation, wherein the two joint sealing tape halvesboth have a sealing element 3 a, 3 b and are partially sheathed withplastic film 4 a, 4 b, in each instance, and wherein the wideningelement 6 lengthens a part 2 a, 2 b of the connection element 2, in eachinstance, and holds the two separated joint sealing tape halvestogether. The further widening element 6 a in the form of a loop isavailable for further widening of the connection element 2. This furtherwidening is shown in FIG. 4c . The further widening element 6 a nowlengthens the widening element 6 and a part 2 a, 2 b of the connectionelement 2, in each instance, and thereby connects the two separatedjoint sealing tape halves. The dimension of the loops 6 and 6 a is sizedin such a manner that after the two joint sealing tape halves are pulledapart by means of separation of the perforation of the connectionelement, the desired width for different alternative profiles occurs.

In FIGS. 5a and 5b , a preferred embodiment of a joint sealing tape 1according to the invention is shown. FIG. 5a shows a schematic frontview of a joint sealing tape 1, wherein the sealing elements 3 a and 3 bare positioned on the outer edges of the connection element 2. Thesealing elements 3 a and 3 b have a round profile and a solid profile,wherein the connection element 2 is positioned laterally on the sealingelements 3 a and 3 b. Furthermore, the sealing elements 3 a and 3 b andconnection element 2 are produced in one piece and consist of acompressible foam material, which contains fire protection additives, ifapplicable. The joint sealing tape 1 is completely sheathed by a plasticfilm 4 and has a perforation (P) in the longitudinal direction of thejoint sealing tape 1 and a widening element 6 composed of a plasticfilm, which is attached to the top of the connection element 2. FIG. 5bshows the joint sealing tape 1 from FIG. 5a , separated at theperforation, wherein the two joint sealing tape halves both have asealing element 3 a, 3 b, both have a part 2 a, 2 b of the connectionelement 2, and are partially sheathed with plastic film 4 a, 4 b, ineach instance, and wherein the widening element 6 connects the twoseparated joint sealing tape halves.

Any geometrical and material configuration of the sealing elements andof the connection element mentioned above can be combined and used asdesired, in order to make a joint sealing tape according to the presentinvention available.

FIG. 6 shows a sectional view through a finished component having theembodiment of a joint sealing tape according to the invention shown inFIG. 5a or 5 b. In particular, FIG. 6 shows the positioning of anembodiment of the joint sealing tape 1 according to the invention in aconnection joint in the case of drywall walls. To seal the gap between aceiling 9, the U profile 7 of a drywall framework, and the gypsum boards8, in a first step the joint sealing tape 1 is laid into the crosspieceof the U profile 7 and attached to the ceiling 9 in usual manner, forexample by screwing it on or nailing it on, together with the profile,in a second step. Then, in a final step, the gypsum boards 8 are laidagainst the flange of the U profile 7, pushed upward in the direction ofthe ceiling 9, wherein a gap remains between the top edge of the gypsumboard 8 and the ceiling 9, which gap is filled with the sealing elements3 a and 3 b of the joint sealing tape 1, in order to permit verticalmovement of the gypsum board 8, for example. As a result, the sealingelements 3 a and 3 b are compressed and thereby seal the gap between theceiling 9 and the U profile 7 and the gap between the ceiling 9 and thegypsum board 8.

As is evident from the above explanations, the joint sealing tapeaccording to the invention is particularly suitable for reliably sealinga building joint between two adjacent components, in simple manner,particularly with regard to noise and/or smoke and also with regard tofire, if applicable, and, at the same time, can be universally used fordifferent profile widths.

In particular, the joint sealing tape according to the invention can beuniversally used for different profile widths of a U profile of adrywall framework, particularly for the usual profile widths of 2½inches (64 mm), 3⅝ inches (92 mm), 4 inches (102 mm), 6 inches (152 mm),8 inches (203 mm), and 10 inches (254 mm). By means of the joint sealingtape according to the invention, a universal product for differentprofile sizes and applications is made available, which can furthermorebe cost-advantageously produced on a production line.

Furthermore, this method of installation is very easy to use, because noadditional attachment of the joint sealing tape, for example to theprofile or to the ceiling is required. Application of the joint sealingtape to a profile, for example, with precise fit, is also not necessarydue to the self-centering of the joint sealing tape that occurs duringinstallation of the profile on a component. Installation is therefore aseasy as can be imagined, and the work effort for installation of thejoint sealing tape is clearly reduced. Therefore, secure and reliablesealing of joints between two components, particularly between a profileof a drywall framework and a component that borders on it, such as aceiling, wall or floor, is achieved by using the invention. In thisregard, sealing on both sides can be achieved in a single work step, inthat a prefabricated sealing element is made available.

Furthermore, it has been shown that excellent sealing can be achievedwith the joint sealing tape according to the invention, because goodcompressibility of the sealing elements is guaranteed by the selectionof the sealing materials and/or the geometrical configuration, withoutany additional aids. The invention also allows setting the correctdistance from the gypsum board to the connecting component, withoutadditional aids, in order to achieve the aforementioned precompression,by means of a suitable selection of the sealing materials and/or thegeometrical configuration.

With the joint sealing tape according to the invention, it can also beensured that sufficient material is installed to guarantee excellentsealing with maximal expansion absorption, and that this is alreadyachieved by the selection of the sealing materials and/or geometricalconfiguration.

Furthermore, with the joint sealing tape according to the invention,uneven areas of a component surface can already be securely sealed offwhen a component is placed against another component, because thesealing elements of the joint sealing tape are pressed against thesurface of the one component in sufficiently firm manner and, at thesame time, pressed against the side surface of the other component.

In view of the above, it is evident that the objects of the inventionare solved. Because various modifications of the joint sealing tapedescribed above can be made without deviating from the scope of theinvention, the intention is that all the objects contained in the abovedescription are interpreted as illustrations and not in a restrictivesense.

1-20. (canceled) 21: A joint sealing tape for sealing a joint between afirst component and a second component, said joint sealing tapecomprising: an elongated connection element and a sealing elementcomprising an intumescent positioned on said connecting element runningin a longitudinal direction of said connection element, wherein saidconnection element has a perforation, and wherein said perforation islocated within a central segment of said connection element.
 22. Thejoint sealing tape according to claim 21, wherein said sealing elementhas a rectangular profile.
 23. The joint sealing tape according to claim21, wherein said joint sealing tape is configured for sealing a jointfrom the outside.
 24. The joint sealing tape according to claim 21,wherein said joint sealing tape is suitable for reliable sealing abuilding joint between two adjacent components.
 25. The joint sealingtape according to claim 21, wherein said joint perforation allowsseparation by tearing apart.
 26. The joint sealing tape according toclaim 21, wherein said joint perforation allows separation by pullingapart.
 27. The joint sealing tape according to claim 25, wherein saidperforation allows separation without the use of a tool.
 28. The jointsealing tape according to claim 21, wherein said sealing element has asolid profile.
 29. The joint sealing tape according to claim 21, whereinsaid sealing element comprises two sealing elements positioned on outeredges of said connection element.
 30. The joint sealing tape accordingto claim 21, wherein said sealing element is produced from a material inone piece.
 31. The joint sealing tape according to claim 21, whereinsaid connection element comprises a plastic film.
 32. The joint sealingtape according to claim 21, wherein connection element further comprisesa contact region.